Things to keep in mind when using government vehicles Published Nov. 3, 2010 By Capt. Frederick Puskar 30th Logistics Readiness Squadron operations officer VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Have you ever wondered how your tax dollars are spent? Wouldn't you want the caretakers of these funds to use them efficiently? How we use our government vehicles here at Vandenberg has a direct relation to this statement. Let's think of it this way; would you use a military issue M-16 on a personal hunting trip? Of course not, it's government property! This same concept applies to the vehicles you drive on a day to day basis. Unauthorized use of a government vehicle includes anything of a personal, non-mission related nature. This includes such popular base establishments as Burger King, the B/X and Shoppette. However, there are always exceptions to the rule! Some Emergency Responders and TDY personnel can use these vehicles for this purpose. There are many uses that are completely legal when using our government vehicles. Examples of this include dental appointments, urinalysis testing and MPF records checks just to name a few. In some circumstances we can even authorize you to use our government vehicles for medical appointments off the installation...as long as TRICARE allows it. Picture this: While in your shop's vehicle; you decide you will just swing into BK for a quick bite. You don't want to go all the way back to south base to grab your own vehicle. No one will ever know, right? That's where the Vehicle Misuse program comes in. Do you remember the adage "All Airmen are a sensor?" What if we add dependents and retirees to the equation? Any individual can anonymously contact the Vehicle Operations Element to report the possible misuse of a government vehicle. An investigation can be initiated and the final results are sent to your Squadron Commander. Last calendar year, Vandenberg AFB had 10 total misuse cases. This year has seen significantly less. We are all an intricate part of the mission here at Vandenberg; across the Wing, Groups and Tenant Units. Should you have any questions, the Vehicle Operations Element of the 30th Logistics Readiness Squadron stands ready to assist you! They can be reached at 606-3122.